Voting Systems

First Past the Post (FPTP) is a tried-and-tested system that ensures stability and clear governance. It prevents disproportionate influence by minority parties with minimal public support who typically end up holding the balance of power in Proportional Representation (PR) systems.

The British people were clear on this matter in a referendum on voting systems in 2011. FPTP is well established and understood by voters. It provides a clear and robust way of electing Members of Parliament and there is an unambiguous link between constituents and their representatives in Westminster.

For the most part, FPTP produces governments with working majorities in Parliament. This leads to efficient and effective decision-making. FPTP also allows for the formation of a strong opposition party that can provide a check on the power of the government of the day. 
 

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Proportional Representation Voting

The Government is of the view that First Past the Post (FPTP) is a tried-and-tested system that ensures stability and clear governance, and that it prevents disproportionate influence by minority parties with minimal public support who typically end up holding the balance of power in